Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has expressed his disappointment following Nigeria’s 1-0 loss to Norway in their opening match at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Talca on Monday.
The seven-time African champions fell to an early setback when captain Rasmus Holten converted a penalty in the ninth minute to hand Bjorn Johansen’s side the win.
Zubairu Reflects on Missed Opportunities
Despite controlling possession for large portions of the game, Nigeria struggled to break down Norway’s solid defensive setup.
Forward Kparobo Ariehi saw a brilliant effort crash against the upright, while Tana Maigana struck the crossbar in the second half.
“The boys played their hearts out. They did everything humanly possible to make sure we won the match,” Zubairu said after the game.
“Even from the start, we created chances, but unfortunately our efforts kept hitting the bar. It just felt like we weren’t lucky.”
Looking Ahead to Saudi Arabia Clash
Zubairu stressed the importance of bouncing back in their next encounter against Saudi Arabia on Thursday.
“Possession doesn’t win matches. If just one of our attempts had gone in, it would have changed the situation. But that is the way the game comes, and we have to take it as it is,” he added.
“We are going to think about the next match. We just have to pick up the three points.”
